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ACTOR Stephanie Dickson is over the moon after landing the star role in The Kings Theatre’s overseas production of Romeo and Juliet.

The Southsea venue has teamed up with Italian theatre Teatro Nuovo Verona to stage the Shakespeare tragedy in Verona, Italy later this year.

It’s a double honour because there’s the fact I get to play the part of Juliet, which is the most iconic role any young actress can play, but then there is the prospect of performing in Verona.

Stephanie Dickson

And The Kings held auditions in a bid to find top actors and actresses to play the lead roles.

Stephanie, of Emsworth, is celebrating after being named Juliet for the production.

The 21-year-old, who is soon to graduate from Guildford School of Acting, said: ‘It’s incredible.

‘It’s a double honour because there’s the fact I get to play the part of Juliet, which is the most iconic role any young actress can play, but then there is the prospect of performing in Verona.

‘It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

‘Plus I also get to perform in conjunction with The Kings, which is fantastic because I grew up coming to performances here.

‘So it makes it even more special.

‘It’s one of those things where I have always wanted to act since I was a little girl.’

Stephanie, who went to Oaklands Catholic School in Waterlooville, cruised through the audition stages after wowing judges with her Shakespearian monologue and performance of a scene in Romeo and Juliet.

The theatre is still yet to decide who will play that part.

And Stephanie is now preparing for a week’s worth of rehearsals in July – before preparing to perform in front of crowds in Italy later this year.

The production will be staged in Verona’s unique setting of Juliet’s Courtyard – which Stephanie says will be a ‘sensational’ experience.

Following its run in Verona, the production will be brought to the UK and the first performance will be in Portsmouth.

Paolo Valerio, artistic director of Teatro Nuovo-Verona, said he was delighted Stephanie had landed the role – and cannot wait to see her delight crowds.

He said: ‘I am very happy because Stephanie is a very, very nice actress and a nice person.

‘I know for us and for her it will be a great summer.

‘Our show is rather special.’

For further information about the international project, visit kingsportsmouth.co.uk